Aimee Meisgeier of AM Interior Design is a West Coast-based designer. Existing clients of hers bought a Manhattan apartment and tapped her to help with a full-scale remodel. Drawing inspiration from the city, Meisgeier turned the Upper East Side unit into a contemporary oasis. Read on for a Q&A with the designer.
How would you describe the “before” of this home?
The apartment was a sterile environment with no color or depth. The primary bathroom and bedroom had been recently remodeled but were both too contemporary to work with the traditional feel of the rest of the unit, so the overall design felt disjointed.
What about the “after?”
There was serious consideration on how each room flowed together to create a cohesive feel. We also wanted to honor the traditional style of the building with the design decisions, but have them feel innovative. An example of this would be the traditional feel of the primary bathroom with the classic subway tile selection, but the denim blue color makes it feel fresh and unexpected.
How did the apartment’s location influence the design?
We wanted to reflect that artistic and creative environment of the close proximity to The Met with the use of bold color and pattern play.
The home wears rich, jewel-toned colors. What inspired the color scheme?
The energy of New York City. We wanted to bring that vibrant “anything goes” feeling into the design concept.
Which NYC hotels inspired your design of this apartment?
The clients love staying at the Crosby Street Hotel and I stayed there myself a couple of times to surround myself with inspiration for the concept of this project. I love Kit Kemp’s use of color and all the fun and whimsical patterns she mixes together. It all comes together to make a statement—but a statement that is light-hearted and carefree.
Where is the powder room wallcovering from?
The wallpaper is from Timorous Beasties. It’s called New York Toile. It’s an unexpected twist of a traditional toile pattern that showcases urban scenes of NYC—some of them grittier than others. It was the perfect choice to use in the powder room as a statement piece, but one that didn’t take itself to seriously.
How does designing on the East Coast differ from designing on the West Coast?
I love the “anything goes” vibe on the East Coast. I feel the inclusivity of New York City allows for and accepts anything your creative mind can come up with. I feel like I can really push the boundaries of design and “the bolder, the better” is the norm.
When you’re in town, what are your NYC favorites?
I love the American Museum of Natural History. I am a secret dinosaur fanatic so seeing the fossils in person is amazing. I love the feeling of vintage New York and the fabulous food while eating at Emilio’s Ballato in Nolita. The Bowery Hotel is another of my favorite hotels. It’s full of old world charm with the material selections and room designs. The red tassel room keys also help make you feel like you have been transported back to retro times.
What do you love about New York City?
NYC is one of my favorite cities in the world. I love the energy of it and how it sparks my creativity just by walking down any random street and observing all the amazing details the city has to offer. I really enjoy the excitement and the pace of it all. There is never a dull moment, there is always something new to do or experience. I also love the non judgmental feel of the city and how there is a place for everyone to feel like they fit in and are accepted.
